Pontiac Times

LANSING, Mich. — Sen. Michael Webber on Wednesday sent a letter to Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Director Elizabeth Hertel lamenting the agency’s poor cooperation and demanding answers over troubles plaguing the state’s only psychiatric hospital for minors.

"The growing and serious concerns stemming from the Hawthorn Center and Walter P. Reuther Psychiatric Hospital have been alarming and the poor responsiveness by your department has been disappointing," wrote Webber in a letter to Hertel.

In his letter, Webber expressed his frustration, stating, "Time and time again, it seems we find ourselves hitting a roadblock with the department that oversees these facilities — or getting minimal feedback if we’re lucky — this is simply unacceptable." He emphasized the importance of addressing the concerns raised by parents and ensuring the wellbeing of young patients in the state's care.

Webber highlighted the Legislature's responsibility to oversee state agencies like MDHHS, emphasizing, "The Legislature has a duty to ensure state agencies like MDHHS are spending taxpayer dollars on the people they are charged to serve rather than on lawsuits because of poor management and leadership." He further added, "More importantly, we all should be able to trust that young people in the state’s care will be protected from unnecessary and preventable harm."

The Senator also raised concerns about the proposed budget cuts impacting the state Office of the Auditor General (OAG), which plays a crucial role in oversight. He stressed the urgency for action, stating, "Clear and immediate action by this troubled department is urgently needed."

Webber urged residents with experiences or concerns regarding care at state-run psychiatric hospitals to contact Disability Rights Michigan for assistance.

The demands for accountability and transparency in the state's psychiatric care system continue to escalate as Sen. Webber pushes for answers and reforms to ensure the safety and well-being of young patients.